April 6, 2000 Research Basis for Technological Development in Precast Post-Tensioned Segmental Concrete Bridges by Dr. John E. Breen Nassar I. Al-Rashid Chair in Civil Engineering The University of Texas at Austin ABSTRACT The last 30 years have seen the emergence of precast post-tensioned concrete segmentally constructed box girder bridges from a rare novelty to a major competitive force in bridge construction in the United States. Throughout this period the Ferguson Structural Engineering Laboratory of The University of Texas has been continuously engaged in both laboratory and field instrumentation research and development programs in many areas of design and construction for this type bridge under a variety of sponsors. Much of this research has provided the background for the comprehensive AASHTO Guide Specification for Segmental Concrete Bridges. This presentation will summarize key research and development findings and illustrate their application in design and construction of a number of interesting bridges.
			The Pennsylvania State University